Ok boys, you’re gonna like this one. The ultimate drift event in Odaiba where the best of the best in Japan compete annually. And I was there a week ago! *grin*

front stage 

The top 16 drifters are selected by DK (the Drift King, Keiichi Tsuchiya) himself, based on an individual run called Tansou (speed run) where line, angle, speed, and show factor is all observed and taken into account. Line involves taking the correct line, which is usually announced beforehand by judge(s), in this case, DK. The show factor is based on multiple things, such as the amount of smoke, how close the car is to the wall and the crowd’s reaction. Angle is the angle of a car in a drift and speed is the speed entering a turn, the speed through a turn, and the speed exiting the turn; obviously the faster the better. *smile* Drift fans would know ya… *wink*

the Man, DK

free practise runs 

Team Malaysia in free practise 

 

The rest of the competition is then run on a tandem pass format, referred as Tsuiso (chase attack) where drivers are paired off, and each heat comprises two runs, with each driver taking a turn to lead. The best of the 8 heats go to the next 4, and so on, until they reach the final two. *smile* 

chase run 

Very exciting, mind you! You can literally feel the adrenalin rush as you watch the race to see how the drivers strive to achieve precision in their performance. It’s amazing! 

By special invitation, Team Malaysia (represented by the Prince of Drift, Malaysia’s very own Tengku Djan Ley Tengku Mahaleel) was present as one of the 30 participating teams. Djan did a brilliant job desptie the circumstances and restrictions faced (preperarion time, setup, etc.), and although we didn’t make it to the top 16, having the opportunity to be invited to compete on the same plane as Japan’s best already says a lot, so congratulations again Djan! *smile*

 
Djan ready to go!

Team Malaysia at the pits